Building sample prep workflows - what does it take?

Significance of Topic

Gas chromatography analysis of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) is a staple in food quality, regulatory compliance and research laboratories. Automating sample preparation not only reduces manual workload and chemical exposure but also enhances reproducibility and throughput.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note demonstrates how a PAL RTC sample preparation station automates the derivatization and extraction of fatty acids from oils and fat-containing foods for GC analysis. Key aims include translating manual steps into robotic operations and showcasing workflow efficiency.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The manual FAME workflow comprises precise sample weighing, addition of reagents and internal standards, mixing, phase separation and GC injection. On the PAL RTC system, these are implemented via four core operations: aspiration/dispensing, mixing, object transport and Robotic Tool Change (RTC).

• Aspiration and dispensing with interchangeable syringes (1 µL to 1000 µL) for sample, reagents, standards and extracts
• Vortex mixing modules accommodating vials up to 40 mL
• Automated transport of vials and trays between workstations
• Robotic Tool Change enabling rapid tool swaps for different liquid handling and injection tasks

Main Results and Discussion

The automated workflow reproduces all manual steps—from sample transfer through transesterification and liquid–liquid extraction to final GC injection—using a small set of modular operations. The PAL RTC station executes each step with consistent timing and volumetric precision, minimizing variability and operator intervention.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Reduced hands-on time and exposure to hazardous chemicals
• Improved reproducibility and standardization across sample batches
• Flexibility to apply the same platform to derivatizations (e.g. FAME, PFBHA, MSTFA), extractions, headspace and SPME enrichment
• Seamless integration with chromatography data systems for streamlined analysis and data management

Future Trends and Opportunities

Further development of robotic sample preparation will expand applications such as automated calibration standard generation, dynamic method optimization via tool change (e.g. SPME fiber selection), and combining multi-dimensional sample enrichment techniques for advanced GC workflows.

Conclusion

The PAL RTC platform, built on modular aspiration/dispensing, mixing, transport and tool change capabilities, offers a robust and versatile solution for fully automated GC sample preparation. This approach enhances throughput, safety and data quality in quality control and research environments.

Reference

CTC Analytics AG. Building sample prep workflows – IngeniousNews 05/2015 (2015).